The Mohists called the Confucians lazy, self-indulgent, and greedy — were they right? In this episode, we explore two passages about wealth, work, and knowing your worth.

Confucius says he'd take an honest job holding a whip before selling his soul to a corrupt boss, and when Zigong asks what to do with a beautiful piece of jade, the Master doesn't hesitate — but he's waiting for the right buyer.

Along the way, we meet the Mohists, ancient China's sharpest critics of the Confucian school, and discover why golden handcuffs and pearls before swine are timeless problems.

Follow along with the episode guide at analects.net.